New York
FASNY: Everyone to check their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors as clocks go forward one hour on Sunday
New York State – The Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY) is urging everyone to check their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors as New Yorkers prepare to set their clocks forward one hour on Sunday, March 13 for Daylight Saving Time. Alarms that are equipped with removable batteries should have their batteries replaced.
In 2022 New York State leads the nation in home fire deaths with 51 deaths. Working smoke alarms save lives. Three of every five home fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms or in homes lacking smoke alarms, According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA). A quarter of all smoke alarm failures are caused by dead batteries.
“Working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are critical to saving lives during emergencies,” says FASNY President John P. Farrell. “We encourage all New Yorkers to check their smoke and CO alarms monthly to ensure that they are functional. The additional time a smoke or CO alarm provides can be the difference between life and death. In addition, fire sprinkler systems are proven to save lives and these systems should be installed whenever possible. ”
In 2019, a New York State law was passed requiring all newly installed or replacement smoke alarms in the State of New York to be powered by a 10-year, sealed, non-removable battery, or hardwired to the home. It banned the sale of smoke alarms with removable batteries. If you’re not sure when you last replaced the batteries or bought a smoke alarm, FASNY encourages you to purchase a new one with 10-year batteries.
Smoke Alarm Tips from FASNY and the NFPA:
• Test alarms at least once a month by using the test button.
• If you have an alarm with a removable battery, be sure to check the batteries every six months, and change the batteries every year. If a battery is starting to lose its power, the unit will usually chirp to warn you. Do NOT disable the unit.
• Vacuum or blow out any dust that might accumulate in the unit.
• NEVER borrow a battery from an alarm to use somewhere else.
• NEVER paint a smoke or CO alarm.
• Install at least one smoke alarm on every floor of your home, including the basement, and in, or near each sleeping area.
• Smoke alarms should not be installed near a window because drafts could interfere with their operation.
• Families should also develop and practice a home fire escape plan.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for testing smoke alarms and replacing the batteries.
You can visit your fire department’s website or www.fasny.com, and www.nfpa.org for more information on smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, and other information on fire safety and prevention.
-
Local News5 days ago
Reducing illicit ATV and dirt bike activity in Irondequoit; providing an update on the special police detail
-
Local News2 weeks ago
Rochester Board of Education vice president under investigation for alleged threat
-
Local News2 weeks ago
Following sponsor rejection, millions of dollars are put on hold for community organizations in Rochester
-
New York2 weeks ago
Push grows to expand New York’s liquor shipment, container laws
-
Local News1 week ago
Genesee Brewery’s $50 million investment enables the construction of a new, “state-of-the-art” packaging factory
-
Local News2 weeks ago
To support kids who need a wish, more than 275 people attend the Make-A-Wish gala
-
Local News1 week ago
Schumer declares $400 million in federal funding for religious institutions’ protection
-
Local News1 week ago
A judge strikes down the New York abortion rights amendment on November ballots